School & Major: Fine Arts Major at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC

Hometown: No true "hometown". A true nomadic heart trying to find "that one special place to call home."

Fav BANGS Shoe Style/Color: Sahara Sand HT's

"This one of me on my bed is myself, surrounded by my first two collections I ever made: my Geo Collection and Birthstone Collection. "

Here are some questions we asked Julie:

What peaked your interest in art? I come from a very artistic and musical family. My parents taught me to sing and play the piano, and I also used to dance competitively. I had always enjoyed art, but I didn’t fully start pursuing it until I was 15. Painting allows me to express myself in ways that nothing else can. Every time I pick up a brush, I feel as if I learn something new about myself. No matter how I’m feeling, painting allows me to release those emotions and make something beautiful out of them.

What made you decide to start selling your art? In ninth grade I decided to go on my first overseas mission trip to Guatemala. However, the cost was great, and I had to come up with ways to start fundraising. I began making jewelry and selling it to my friends and community at church and school. Eventually, as I became better at paintings, I began selling those, as well. And I’ve been doing it ever since! In December of 2016, I finally opened up my own Etsy shop, Julie K. Art and Design, and it has been such a blessing. I love being able to connect with people through my art and making pieces that are so unique and special to them.

Is there anyone specific who inspires/motivates you? I am inspired by women who have built their own companies and shops from the ground up. Lady bosses motivate me to keep going when other people pin me down for being a young, female entrepreneur. Specific people who inspire me are Sha’an d’Anthes (@furrylittlepeach), Jessica Weymouth (@jessweymouth_), and my dear friend Sarah Brown (@sarahandsweet). These women are incredibly talented and successful and have taught me time and time again about the importance of perseverance and hard work through difficult times.

What's your advice to other artist? My advice would be to just be yourself. It sounds terribly cliche and overstated, but it is the truth. There are so many people out there that are too caught up in the best materials out there, or what is popular and trending. People like originality. And it’s not the materials that makes the artist, it’s practice. Many will try to tell you that you can’t be successful and pay the bills as an artist, but that’s simply not true. Yes, there will be seasons of time where things might not sell as much. But if you are passionate and hardworking, there will also be seasons of great bountifulness, and you will watch your business bloom and thrive.

How does the BANGS community influence you art? The BANGS community has inspired and blessed my business. Hannah Davis, the founder of BANGS, has been so kind and encouraging to me. Quite a few of the other Lead BAs from my squad have supported me by purchasing my art and telling others about my business through social media! I love this community of creatives and adventurers.